In English law, a serjeant-at-law was a highly respected barrister who had reached the highest level of the legal profession. They had the exclusive right to practice in the Court of Common Pleas until 1846, and it was mandatory for every judge of the common-law courts to be a serjeant-at-law until the Judicature Act of 1873. The rank was gradually replaced by Queen’s Counsel. Serjeants’ Inn, located on Chancery Lane in London, was the building that housed the Order of Serjeants-at-Law. However, it was sold and demolished in 1877.
A serjeant-at-law was the highest-ranking barrister in English law, with the exclusive privilege of practicing in the Court of Common Pleas until 1846. Prior to the Judicature Act of 1873, every judge in the common-law courts had to hold the title of serjeant-at-law. This prestigious rank was eventually replaced by Queen’s Counsel. John, being a serjeant-at-law, had the exclusive right to practice in the Court of Common Pleas. These examples highlight the esteemed and exclusive nature of serjeants-at-law in English law. Serjeants’ Inn, located on Chancery Lane in London, served as the residence for the Order of Serjeants-at-Law. However, the building was sold and demolished in 1877. This example demonstrates the physical association between Serjeants’ Inn and the Order of Serjeants-at-Law.
A Serjeant-at-Law was a member of an ancient order of English barristers, who were distinguished by the privilege of pleading in the Court of Common Pleas.
No, the order of Serjeants-at-Law was abolished in 1873, and the last Serjeant-at-Law died in 1922.
Serjeants-at-Law had the exclusive right to plead in the Court of Common Pleas and were entitled to wear special robes and a coif.
The title of Serjeant-at-Law was a prestigious and highly respected title in the legal profession, and those who held it were considered to be among the most skilled and knowledgeable barristers.
No, the title of Serjeant-at-Law is no longer in use, and there are no living individuals who hold this title.
The order of Serjeants-at-Law dates back to the 13th century and played a significant role in the English legal system for many centuries.
After the abolition of the order of Serjeants-at-Law, the title of Queen’s Counsel became the highest rank of barrister in England and Wales.
While the title of Serjeant-at-Law no longer exists, there are still prestigious titles and ranks within the legal profession, such as Queen’s Counsel and Senior Counsel.
Becoming a Serjeant-at-Law was a rigorous and prestigious process that involved years of legal practice and a special ceremony known as the “Creation of Serjeants.”
Yes, there have been many famous Serjeants-at-Law throughout history, including Sir Thomas More and Sir Edward Coke, who were both highly influential legal figures in their time.
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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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